Talking France
Talking France is The Local's weekly podcast discussing big news and talking points in France, exploring major issues that impact life in the country. Host Ben McPartland chats with Emma Pearson and Emma Albright, often joined by veteran journalist John Lichfield and other expert commentators. The podcast also answers essential questions and looks ahead at what's coming up.
Épisodes
Heatwaves, wildfires and border delays: What to expect in France this summer
In this week’s episode of Talking France we’ll look ahead to the holiday season in July and August and spell out exactly what you can expect in France this summer from the weather outlook and wildfire alerts to what will happen in French politics and what to expect if you’re travelling to or within France?Remember even though Talking France takes a break over the summer our team will still be cove
French clash over air conditioning and how France became the best place to get naked
Welcome to a new episode of Talking France. It’s our penultimate episode before we take a summer break and it’s a jam-packed one full of the latest news, talking points and flare ups from France.We’ll start with the fall out from the unprecedented and deadly heatwave that hit France in the second half of June.SPECIAL OFFER: Listeners can read The Local France for half price - (Introductory offer f
Is France prepared to face more hellish heatwaves and why the French are ruling the World Cup?
On this week's show we discuss the heat, yes France and the rest of Europe is in the grip of another brutal heatwave - and it's still only June.We'll look at the huge impact it's having on daily life in France and why the country isn't better prepared to deal with spells of extreme heat - given we know they are only going to become frequent and even hotter. And we’ll explain some important rules a
Macron’s swan song, why France is mad for roundabouts and how Lyon became the home of gastronomy
This week we’ll look at whether Emmanuel Macron can land any knock out blows for Europe as he welcomes global leaders including Donald Trump to France for what’s been dubbed as his swansong in the international arena.And we’ll have answers to two of the big questions visitors to Paris have about the French capital’s transport system, we’ll find out whether it’s true that France has more roundabout
70,000 outstanding complaints: France rocked by scale of child sexual violence
First up this week we'll look at how the killing of a young girl in south west France has sparked nationwide anger and protests and put the French governent under pressure to respond to a growing crisis around sexual violence towards children.We'll also look ahead to 2070 and find out what the French population will look like then, we'll also examine whether France really is home to half of the wo
Why the violence after football in France and will the French pay up for slavery role?
On this week's episode we will discuss the trouble you can get into in France for being sexist after one man was fined 55,000 euros for an ungentlemanly outburst.We'll also find out why dramatic football victories in France end in scenes of violence, how the country is coming to terms with its involvement in the slave trade, but why it's unlikely the French government will be paying any reparation
How to live without a car in France and are we facing an insufferably hot summer?
As we recorded this episode, France is baking under a record-breaking May heatwave that has sadly proved deadly - at least seven people having died in incidents linked to the hot weather. We’ll get the latest on the weather and find out if it’s a sign that summer will be insufferable in France this year. In this week’s show we’ll also hear about how France’s most iconic car is making a
France frets over contaminated baguettes and how to avoid renovation nightmares
This week we'll find out why it's all kicked off at the famous Cannes film festival. In one corner of the ring we have hundreds of French film stars, directors and industry staff and in the other corner we have the country's most controversial media tycoon - who we'll explain has his fingers on pretty much everything in France it seems.We'll also hear what property owners in France need to avoid t
The €16 million French château scam and why 2027 could be a ‘scary’ year in France?
This week we’ll find out why France might be about to ditch rent controls in cities including the capital Paris, how foreigners in France have been hit by outages to key French admin websites, the latest on the marathon race to become the next French president and what Emmanuel Macron has been doing with all his spare time these days.Plus we’ll bring you the story of a 16 million euro French chate
France's new anti-mosquito measures and where the French go for good food
This week we’ll hear about how France is under siege from mosquitoes and the new and old ways being used to fight back - including what you can do to keep them out of your garden.We’ll also find out about the parts in France where drivers caught using the mobile phones at the wheel will face stiff new punishments and hear about the parts of the country the French head to if they want good food.We’
France takes on Musk and will French airports run out of jet fuel this summer?
On this week’s show we’ll find out why a story involving French prosecutors, a rabbit and the US tech billionaire and far right crusader Elon Musk made headlines in France.We’ll also find out why the rules for driving cars in cities and towns across France look set for a dramatic change and whether the country’s most notorious ring road could be transformed from one of the most polluted spots in F
France to lose 1.7million children and far right photoshoot causes stir
In this week's show we'll find out why the rules around France's sacred May 1st public holiday have sparked a political row to the point where some lawmakers have accused the government ministers of - quote - "pissing all over us". We'll also hear why arguably France's most unique region wants independence, why pictures of far-right presidential favourite Jordan Bardella and his new gir
French tax traps you need to avoid and why Paris is divided in two
This week we'll find out whether France is running out of fuel or not and get the latest on how expensive it is to fill up your tank here.We'll hear about a cautionary tale of how the French tax man caught an apparent 'non-resident' because of all the take away meals he was ordering in France.And we'll alert you to a few more tax traps you want to avoid in France during declaration season.We'll al
Oil crisis fuels French anger and is France sleepwalking into a far-right presidency?
On this week’s show we’ll find out how the war in the Middle East is impacting life in France as fuel prices rise and protests kick off around the country.What can the government do to ease the crisis?With the local elections out of the way France’s next election race has begun. It’s the big one - we’ll get the lowdown on the lineup for the 2027 Presidential Election and whether we can already cal
The verdict on what the local election results mean for France
We are out earlier than usual this week in order to bring you the results and analysis of the 2026 French local elections.The definitive second round vote was held on Sunday in thousands of communes across France, from tiny rural villages to the big urban centres like Lyon, Marseille and Paris.Over the next 20 minutes or so we'll bring you all the key takeaways from the main battle grounds, get so
Tense French elections head for super Sunday climax and five French towns worth moving to
The Local’s Talking France podcast is attracting more and more listeners each week and we currently have over 12,000 monthly downloads on average. If your company would like to connect with our international audience and sponsor one of our episodes, please email news@thelocal.frThis week we are, what the French describe as "l'entre deux tours" which means between two rounds. I'm referring to
Why the French local elections really matter and Macron walks Middle East tightrope
This week, well the news in France has been dominated by the war in the Middle East. We'll explain the ongoing impact that the conflict is having on daily life here and we'll look at how President Emmanuel Macron is handling France's role in the crisis.We'll also focus this week on one of France's most beautiful cities and explore why Americans are moving there in droves.But we'll start this week
France fears more political violence and record rainfall leaves the country under water
France right now is pretty much either water or under metres of snow, depending on where you are in the country so we'll start by getting the latest on the extreme weather that continues to lash the country.The big story in France this week has been the killing of a young far-right activist in Lyon after violent clashes that have been blamed on a group on the extreme left. We'll look at all the re
Le Pen faces the end and why France wants less meat but more babies
On the agenda this week, we’ll find out if anyone can beat likely far-right candidate Jordan Bardella to be the next president of France. He’s flying in the polls, he’s flying on tiktok, but will he fly into the Elysee? We’ll also get the lowdown on private beaches in France. How come there are so many when all beaches are meant to be public?And the government has the country’s sacred summer
Why fewer foreigners are becoming French and how to solve France's second home quandary?
This week we start off with some explosive news from France before we hear why authorities on a picturesque island off France's west coast are offering second home owners thousands of euros for their properties and look at why houses have become so expensive in places like the famous Il de Ré.And we'll look at how speed cameras are getting flashier in France and try to understand why everyone, in
Is France becoming less child-friendly and what's at stake in spring's local elections?
Up this week we'll look at what's at stake in the upcoming local elections in France and whether French voters really care. And we'll look ahead to the French presidential election to see whether anyone can unite the left... and whether French voters really care.We'll also look at why kids have been banned from some first class trains in France and whether France, on the whole, is less child-frien
Americans in France talk of shame and explaining the strange noises the French make
This week we'll look at whether the French government will survive long enough to enjoy the weekend and find out what the French make of all this budget bedlam that's been going on far too long, especially when the world seems to be lurching towards a crisis.And speaking of that crisis, we'll look ahead to where these mounting tensions between France, Europe and Donald Trump will lead too, and we'
Is it time for France to channel De Gaulle and stand up to the US?
This week on Talking France we look at the reasons so many landlords in France get away with renting out hovels - even though there are supposed to be laws against it.We’ll look at just how safe skiing is in France these days given 6 people, including one Briton, were killed in avalanches over the weekend.And we’ll look at why France’s leaders are being urged to channel their “inner De Gaule” and
France takes fight to social media giants and how Les Clooneys became French
This week we’ll discuss the big talking point in France at the start of January 2026, which is just how did George Clooney and his wife Amal and their kids become French citizens?George doesn’t seem to be a full time resident in France, nor by his own admission does he speak French very well, nor is he married to a French national, so how did he do it? We’ll find out and look at some of the
What to expect in France in 2026 from travel changes to new immigration rules
This is a special episode focussed on looking ahead to next year in France, so you are all aware of what will happen in terms of travel and immigration changes and what might happen when it comes to political crises and elections.We'll look at all the key changes on the horizon and the key cultural dates to get in your diary for next year.So sit back, crack open an oyster or two or if you are like
French farmers fight to 'stop the slaughter' and what's in store for France this Christmas?
This week, we will look at the latest flare up between the government and French farmers, many of whom have been spending recent days blockading motorways or public buildings and basically trying to get the government to listen.We'll also find out about a significant vote in the French parliament about residency permits and look at the new French Civics Test that will be compulsory in 2026 for cit
Will France mess with dual-nationals and why do Americans love all things French ?
It seems no one likes dual nationals these days. They are being picked on by politicians in countries across the world. We'll look at whether the rules around dual citizenship could change in France and also remind you of some big changes ahead for anyone planning on becoming French.We'll also find out why French police and their boss - the French interior minister are up in arms and threatening l
Are airlines scrapping 'thousands' of flights to France and can a French mayor demand silence in streets?
This week we have all the latest on the budget showdown in what is a crucial week for the French government. We'll hear about a new high speed train service linking two of France's big cities, but why it isn't quite as direct as it sounds.We'll examine whether France's ecotax on plane tickets is really leading to airlines cancelling flights and, forget the Nordic countries we'll hear how France is
France wakes up to the threat of war and is French wine industry doomed?
With French army generals giving speeches about the need to protect ourselves, the president announcing new plans for military service and French authorities telling us we all need to prepare an emergency box with blankets, baby food and board games, this week we'll look at why all the talk of war in France right now?And could change finally be ahead for the French school calendar. Are they about
Fast food slowly kills French restaurants and Pétain provokes new rumble in France
Take advantage of our half price Black Friday offer and join The Local France today for just €24.99.This week we'll gaze into our crystal balls and look to the future, to that day, and a momentous day it will be, an occasion where everyone will remember exactly where they were, the day when France agrees its 2026 budget. Unless it doesn't happen.We'll also explain why a small mass held for 20
France's shock healthcare fee plan and will French PM sacrifice himself?
This week we’ll bring you up to date on the crucial 2026 budget that’s edging its way through parliament and look at what it might mean for you, plus news on the strikes that lie ahead in France.We’ll find out about a plan to make American retirees pay into the French health system to guarantee they can get care, plus look at the impact of airbnb around France. Has it turned rural villages into gh
What the Louvre heist reveals about France and new civics test unveiled
We simply cannot not discuss the 88 million euro jewellery heist at France's most famous museum The Louvre in this week's episode. How could it happen? Some blame lax security, others blame funding cuts, some blame Macron of course, whilst our politics expert recons France just has too much treasure to look after it all. And France's government is hanging by a thread. Can it get a vital budge
France presses the self-destruct button and Paris prepares for 'flood of the century'
You'll be glad to know things have become just a little clearer since last week when it comes to what is going on in France. Just a little.We have a new government, we kind of have a new prime minister, we've had a major retreat by the French president Emmanuel Macron, and we have a crucial few weeks ahead of us in France, during which, I don't think it's an exaggeration to say, the future o
What the f**k is going on in France and where have all the eggs gone?
Talking France is back with a new episode, slightly earlier than planned because France has another meltdown. Forgive us for the title, but listen to the episode and you'll understand why we chose it.Even in a country that has made its name as Europe's political madhouse over the last year or so, this latest crisis took us all by surprise.Yes, France's new prime minister quit this week, just hours
France shamed by Sarko and is the Champs-Élysées now the worst street in Paris?
A former French president is set to spend some time behind bars in prison, quite a bit of time actually. Yes Nicolas Sarkozy, remember him, he’s been up to no good. Again. We'll hear about France's reaction to poor old Sarko being sent down and ask why are France's centre-right, law and order loving, politicians so... crooked? (Not all of them of course)We'll also lament the demise of Paris's, per
What's next for strikes in France and are Americans being ripped off in Paris?
This week we’ll look at whether France’s new prime minister can do anything to appease the obstinate opposition in parliament and whether he’s got any chance of calming the growing anger on the streets.We’ll also find out why protests in France always spark a row over numbers, how Americans are being ripped off in Paris, why the French state may no longer pay for your 18-day trip to a thermal spa
Can France's new prime minister do anything to avoid an autumn of discontent?
On this week's show we'll bring you up to date with the turmoil in France, which shows no sign of calming down. The country has another new PM, but another day of strikes, protests and potential clashes looms large. Is there any way the crisis can be resolved?France's tax man is well nourished but there's a new plan gaining popularity that would see the country's richest pay more. But who's behind
France takes another step towards chaos as PM falls and mood of rebellion grows
The French government has collapsed again after Prime Minister François Bayrou lost a vote of confidence in parliament on Monday night.We've been here before of course, but the latest French political crisis feels even more fraught with President Emmanuel Macron running out of options and numerous strikes and opposition movements lined up for the days ahead.What happens now? What happens in France
With another PM doomed and strikes ahead, is France now ungovernable?
Be warned, France’s strike calendar for September is quickly filling up as various unions announce industrial action that could impact, well, pretty much all aspects of life in France. We’ll look at just how much disruption and political discord lie ahead over the next few weeks in France.And remember this could be the last Talking France episode with Francois Bayrou as Prime Minister. We’ll explo
Does France realise the 'imminent danger' it's in?
So summer's almost over, but it's been an eventful one in France. We'll bring you up to date with what's been happening. But the thrust of this week's episode and the reason we've started the new series a week earlier than planned is that France has, once again, been plunged into, yep you can guess what I'm going to say next: a new political crisis.The country is facing "great danger" says the PM
From strikes to extreme heat: What to expect in France this summer
This final episode of the season is all about looking ahead to the summer in France. And it plans to be a hot one, in more ways than one with a raft of possible transport strikes ahead that could impact your holidays.We'll get all the latest on industrial action, some possible political turbulence as well as look ahead to some major summer events in France and find out just how extreme the heatwav
The story of Brittany's killer algae and where you can avoid the tourists in France
This week we'll find out about how toxic green algae on Brittany's famously picturesque beaches claimed the life of a French jogger and perhaps others plus the role French farming and even the state played in his death.We'll also look at the far less sparkly side of France's prestigious Champagne industry that's exposed how badly grape pickers are treated and bring you all the details about how yo
Explaining naughty French politicians and the pros and cons of new Paris airport link
Up this week : It's been another bad week for the reputation of French politicians. We'll discuss why they are so naughty, and when I say naughty I mean corrupt, rather than bed hopping.And we'll also bring you the good news that Paris and Charles de Gaulle airport will soon have a direct train link that's been centuries in the making. Although there's some bad news too given how much it's going t
France shocked by 'senseless' school violence and the inventions you never knew were French
This week we discuss a shocking incident which saw a teaching assistant stabbed to death by a pupil outside a French secondary school, and find out what the government plans to do, to tackle what the president has described as a "senseless wave of violence".We'll also find out about the efforts Paris is going to to protect the Seine and reveal all about Paris's second, secret river, that may be gi
Has Uber changed France and will smoking ever be banned on café terraces?
This week we'll explain the ongoing and far-from-brotherly dispute behind the different kinds of taxi drivers in France and whether they'll ever declare peace with each other.We'll examine why France's efforts to clean up the air in its polluted cities might be about to go up in smoke and explain France's new rules on smoking outdoors - and how they will impact both smokers and non-smokers.And we'
What that 'slap' says about the Macrons and French farmers fight the future
In the line up this week we'll explain what prompted the huge reaction to that coming together between Brigitte Macron's hands and Emmanuel Macron's face. You must have seen the video by now. We don't know what happened but we do know what happened next.And from taxi driver blockades to farmers protesting in tractors and mysterious blackouts in the south, we'll bring you the latest on ongoing
France hit by 'sordid kidnappings' and the best place to buy a French second home
This week we'll explain a spate of recent worrying kidnappings in France and what the French government is doing to halt them, plus we'll try and alleviate any fears for tourists in Paris after reports of two Americans being attacked by a street vendor wielding mini-Eiffel towers.We'll also look at how you might be affected by the agreements drawn up in the much-hyped UK - EU post Brexit deal thra
Will Macron's referendums ever happen and why French bureaucracy is getting easier?
This week we hear about how the unpopular President Emmanuel Macron plans to box himself out of a corner into the centre of the ring and if he’s actually going to hold any of his much talked about referendums.We’ll also find out about France’s urban rodeos and why they are so popular but also so dangerous.We’ll hear why the scandalous Dreyfus affair is such a key moment in French history, and why
France's plan to save kids from screens and will it get harder to become French?
In the show this week, French interior minister has announced plans to toughen up the requirements for becoming French - including a possible new history and civics test. We'll look at what he's got in mind for future citizenship applicants and most importantly whether it will actually change anything.We'll also find out about new proposals in France to get kids off their screens. Could France mak
Do the French need to work harder and why is Nice the place to move to?
For this week's big talking points we'll look at what's happening on May Day in France, why French bakers are up in arms this year and whether there'll be any riots.And the future of France is at stake, according to the French PM and he's blaming the French for not working hard enough. We'll find out what needs to happen for France to be saved.And we'll hear why Americans are all moving to the Fre
So who'll be the next president of France and three French laws you should know
It might be two years but the race - albeit a marathon rather than a sprint - to be the next president of France has already started. We’ll hear about who’s in the running, who might be out of it, and who has the best chance of winning.And we’ll tell you why US president Donald Trump is targeting a tiny French overseas territory and why Emmanuel Macron called on French companies to suspend investm
What now for Le Pen after bombshell verdict and France's favourite dishes revealed
This new episode is not one you want to miss because shockwaves rippled around France this week when it was announced far right leader Marine Le Pen had been banned from standing for political office for the next five years. This could of course rule her out of the 2027 French presidential election.It's a huge story, it's all kicked off and we'll have all the latest looking at what happens next, w
Crunch time for Le Pen, Ryanair's threat and McDonald's targets rural France
This week we'll look at a potential earthquake in French politics that could strike next week. That's when far right leader Marine Le Pen will find out whether she's been banned from standing in elections. Could she be banned? Should she be banned? What will happen if she is? We'll delve deep into all of those questions and try to come with some answers.We'll also find out about McDonald's vision
Why the US can be grateful to the French, France's tremor threat and avoiding ETA scams
This week we look at the earthquake risks in different parts of France after the city of Nice and the surrounding area was recently shaken by a 4.1 magnitude tremor. Scientists say France should expect a big quake one day, but do we know where and when?We also wade into a new transatlantic war of words over the Statue of Liberty and look at what else France has given the United States over the yea
How France can revive village life and the historic menace lurking under French soil
This week we look at how the international crisis is impacting France. Is President Emmanuel Macron a war monger and making the most of it all to boost his flagging popularity as his critics say, or is he the right man at the right time to lead France and Europe through increasingly stormy waters. And we look at the battle for French public opinion between Macron and the country’s increasingl
Can Macron keep Trump on Europe's side and will France see a tourism backlash?
We start off this week by jumping straight into the increasingly choppy waters of international relations and examine whether France has a strong enough military to help bring peace to Europe and whether Emmanuel Macron has any influence at all over Donald Trump.We also explain how the UK's new travel authorisation scheme could affect you and your family in France and explain why a 102-year-old Fr
What does it mean to be French and how will France's budget impact you?
On the menu for this week we'll start off by talking about France's new highly intelligent cat, which Emmanual Macron is hoping will rule the world. Don't worry, we'll explain what I'm on about shortly.We'll also delve into France's new budget and explain how listeners will be impacted by some of the measures, including why you'll have to pay more for flights in France in the future.You've all hea
The French mineral water scandal, Alps travel headaches and solving 'tu' versus 'vous'
On the bill this week, we get the latest on the forecast for how long the French PM will last as he tries to navigate the government through evermore turbulent waters.And speaking of water we'll also hear about a potentially huge scandal involving French eau mineral - or mineral water. We'll look at potential problems for the thousands of skiers heading to the FRench Alps this February includ
Macron’s €800m Louvre revamp explained and full speed ahead for rural France
This week we'll examine the French President's planned multi-million euro revamp of the world famous Louvre gallery in Paris and also… why is Emmanuel Macron even getting involved in museum refurbishments anyway?We'll also discuss the end of the internet in France, well not quite, but there are major changes afoot that listeners should be aware of.And we'll explore France's love-hate relationship
Why France must act to avoid being ‘crushed’ and French census stirs anger
Donald Trump is back and his mate Elon Musk is doing a lot of talking and gesticulating, but the pair have been fairly quiet about France... so far. We'll examine whether Emmanual Macron has managed to befriend and becalm them or if Trump and co will "crush" France and Europe as the French PM has warned.On a slightly less worrying subject we'll explain France's new census that's taking place aroun
Will pensioners bring down France and why the 'office de tourisme' is dying out?
This week we'll find out why pensioners are to blame for all of France's problems, well not quite, but they are perhaps to blame for all the new prime minister's troubles. We'll also examine some major travel changes for south west France at a time that could spell both bad and good news for residents there.We'll get to the bottom of a new driving law in France that's finally come into force
Why driving in France has got complicated and the 12 moans that explain the French
This week we bring you all the latest on some big changes in France for drivers and look at where in the country you’ll wait the longest for a response from your prefecture. We will of course bring you the latest on the plight of France’s latest government and remind you who the PM is these days.We also explain the 12 Gallic complaints you’ll need to get through the year in France.And it’s 10 year
What to expect in France in 2025 from new laws to major travel changes
This special episode is dedicated entirely to looking ahead so you know a little about what to expect in France in 2025.We'll try and answer some of the big questions about what lies ahead. Such as... How many Prime Ministers will France have in 2025? More or less than the 4 it had in 2024? We'll also look at whether there will be more elections this year and more protests and political crises.We'
Can you get by in France without French and why does the government spend so much?
In this special episode of Talking France in which we answer some questions about France from listeners of the podcast and readers of The Local.These questions will cover everything from whether Donald Trump being back in the White House means Marine Le Pen will soon be in Macron’s house - the Elysee palace.We’ll answer a question on how could France have an energy crisis when it’s got so much nuc
How long will new French PM last and what to expect in France this Christmas?
France has a new Prime Minister, just in time for the New Year, but how long will he last for in 2025? France does have a PM but will it get a new government in time for Christmas? A lot has happened in French politics since last week and there’s a lot more that will happen before the end of the year so we’ll break it all down for you.Away from politics we’ll find out about some foreign
Will France get a Christmas truce and how speaking French affects your personality?
This week, we'll get the latest on the ongoing political crisis in France and President Emmanuel Macron's quest to find a government to run the country. Will he succeed in getting a Christmas truce?We'll find out who the winners and losers are from the fact that France has no 2025 budget and look at who might be to blame for the messy end of year in French politics.We'll find out what's so special
What next as France enters the unknown after government collapse?
France has been plunged into crisis this week. As widely expected the French government has fallen along with Prime Minister Michel Barnier after they lost a no-confidence vote on Wednesday evening.What happens next? Can the under-pressure President Emmanuel Macron steady the ship or will he jump, as many are calling for. We get all the latest news and analysis on the political chaos.Elsewhere thi
Will landmark rape trial change France and what's next if French government falls?
France has only had a new government for a couple of months and now it looks like it could lose it - just when it really needs one. We'll find out what's going on and what it will mean for the country and the crucial 2025 budget if the government falls.We'll also explore how Paris has changed over the last 10 years under mayor Anne Hidalgo, who announced this week she won't run for a third term.We
French sex lives explained, Notre Dame's unholy row and is Le Pen facing the end?
Protesting French farmers are threatening to cause chaos and the government is struggling to calm their anger. We explain the reasons for their fury and why it's causing France to lose friends in Brussels.And could Marine Le Pen be barred from standing in the next presidential election? We look at the ramifications of what could be a bombshell court verdict.We also talk about sex this week or more
France faces winter of strikes and protests and will Trump revive Macron?
This week we look ahead to winter in France, not the weather or Christmas, but the likelihood of major strikes causing disruption across the country. French farmers, rail unions and pilots have all announced protests and industrial action over the days and weeks ahead. Just how bad could it get?We also explain why Emmanuel Macron might just have his mojo back thanks to Donald Trump but will he be
New French rail strikes protest 'privatisation' and how can Americans move to France?
To start this news series off we find out how the French President Emmanuel Macron and his government might be feeling about the return of Donald Trump to the White House. And with many Americans apparently taking to Google to find out how they can move to France, we explain if they actually can, and all the pitfalls to avoid if you do.We also explain why French rail unions are threatening "long a
How painful will cuts in France be and why's Macron fretting about Emily in Paris?
Up for discussion this week is what's been described as "the most violent austerity plan France has ever seen." We find out just how painful the new budget will be for people in France.And apart from the budget, there's a planned new immigration bill that could also spell bad news for foreigners in France. We find out more.And did you know around 150 movies and TV series are filmed in Paris each y
How Paris is different from France and when will French ski slopes close for good?
The big news this week in France is that the mythical golden owl, a treasure people in France have been hunting for for three decades, has finally been found. If you have no idea what I'm talking about please stay tuned. This week we'll also get the calculator out and find out if France's autumn budget - described as the toughest and most important in 50 years - will solve any of the country'
The foreigners who helped make France and just how bad is the French debt crisis?
Up for discussion this week is the French PM's key policy speech and why it sounded like a wedding speech by a bride's grandfather. Plus, does the PM have a chance of getting anything done and will the gaping hole in the country's money box spell doom for us all here in France?On a more positive note we'll put France's interior minister to rights by introducing you to some foreign immigrants
Can France's government of 'losers' win anyone over and French airports hit turbulence
In this new episode we take a look at France's new government. It's been dubbed a government of "losers" and we'll get to the bottom of who's in it, how long it might last and whether foreigners in France should be wary of the direction it takes.We also find out why the Chinese are giving France's cognac makers a huge headache, whether Paris deserves its reputation as the "City of Rats", and look
Can France accept major tax hikes and what's gone wrong with croissants?
This week we'll get the latest on the never-ending story that is France's quest to find a new government and find out if the country is facing imminent tax hikes to plug the gaping deficit.We also look at which are the best cities in France when it comes to having access to everything you need for everyday life. Plus we explore where are the most remote parts of the country where you'll be content
How long will France's new PM last and what will the Paris Olympics legacy be?
Talking France is back with a new series. This week, we'll bring you right up to date with the political shenanigans in France and examine whether there will be any positive legacy for Paris now the Olympics are over.Remember the political crisis that was paused over the summer? Well French politicians have pressed the play button again and the drama continues to be gripping. We'll run t
How can France's stormy political crisis be resolved and will the Olympics go to plan?
In the last episode before the summer break we focus on the post-election political crisis that is gripping France.We've had the elections, they produced a shock result and although there were some losers - namely Marine Le Pen’s far right which finished third despite pollsters predictions that they would win - there wasn't really a clear winner. So what happens now? When will France get a new gov
How to explain France's shock election results and what happens now?
In this special edition of the Talking France podcast we'll look in detail at the shock results of the defining second round of France’s snap parliamentary elections.We also get all the reaction from the key players, look ahead at what happens next and get all the analysis from our politics expert John Lichfield.Host Ben McPartland is also joined by The Local France’s Emma Pearson.READ MORE:What h
With France's far right at the gates of power will French voters let them in?
France has voted in the first round of the snap parliamentary poll - an election considered one of the most pivotal in recent French history.This week, we explain the results, look ahead at what happens over the next few days and what Sunday's second round will bring. Can the far-right get a majority government or will the so-called Republican Front hold firm once again? President Emmanuel Macron
